Where to Watch the Perseid Meteor Showers in Baltimore

It’s the most magical time of the year for star-watchers: This week, the Perseid meteor showers are lighting up the night sky with as many as a hundred meteors per hour. The shooting star show peaks late tonight/early tomorrow morning, and it promises to be an extra good once since the moon is new so the sky will be plenty dark. Here’s where to watch:

1) In your own backyard: NASA recommends looking “towards the familiar constellations Cassiopeia and Perseus in the northeast.” You don’t need a telescope to see this show; just some patience and a clear, dark sky.

2) In a park: Tonight at Shenandoah National Park, you can enjoy dark night skies and expert commentary from park rangers, NASA scientists, and amateur astronomers. The park plays host to three separate star parties tonight, starting at 9PM.

3) At the Howard County Conservancy: Towson University astrophysicist Dr. Parviz Ghavamian is bringing a high-powered telescope to this free program, which begins tonight at 10PM.

4) Somewhere dark: This is a perfect excuse for a romantic drive into the countryside surrounding Baltimore. Pick a spot with low light pollution, grab a blanket, and have yourself a stargazing/cuddling party.

5) Inside your house: If you don’t feel like leaving the comfort of your own home, you can listen to NASA astronomers livestream tonight’s meteor shower starting at 10PM.